Nuchal translucency test - how long for results

[Redcliff]

Hi
I am 10 weeks and aged 42 (will be 43 at DD) and umming and arring about getting a private harmony test. Had a long chat with DP last night and he was really worried about the cost (we really don't have £600 spare), although he called me today and said if I really want it then her will support me I am still torn.

Am thinking - would it make sense to wait for my 12 week scan result and then decide if I want a harmony test? How long does it take to get the results from the NHS - I am sure last time I got a letter a couple of weeks after the scan (was much younger then so didn't really appear on my radar) but reading these boards some people seems to have got them the day they went for the scan.

I wouldn't terminate if there was a high risk of downs - I would just want to know with as much certainly as possible so I could prepare myself.

Any advice/information gratefully received – I am such a worrier and my head is a bit all over the place at the moment.

I know a lot of people who have waited to see their NT screening before deciding on Harmony. You run the risk of getting a scary NT result and then a two week wait for Harmony results, but on the other hand you could also save yourself a lot of money if you take a chance.

Having said that, at your age (no offence, I promise!!) you are likely to screen positive anyway as the age related risk on its own is screen positive. The NHS tells you 3-5 working days (and some don't tell you if the results are fine) but in reality you may find yourself contacted a little earlier - mine was two days later with my 1 in 60.

If you live near London and think you are going to do Harmony regardless, you may wish to kill two birds with one stone and get your NT done at the FMC as I think they have some sort of deal going there if you do Harmony? You get your NT screening results same day at the FMC, no idea about anywhere else.

It's possible some places may give you a discount on Harmony if you have a very recent NT scan too.

Good luck with your decision and I hope everything turns out well!

Hi Redcliff, where abouts do you live? If near enough London then go to the Fetal Medicine Centre, they are doing the test for £400, it includes a viability scan at 10 weeks, the nuchal scan and combined test two weeks later and the harmony test which is taken at the viability scan and the results given at the NT scan. I think the cost maybe different if you don't do it in your tenth week.

Thank you both so much for taking the time to reply. Have decided to have the test and that's really useful info regarding the cheaper option. I will give them a call as London is perfect for me.